JP7388127B2 - Printing device and control method - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a printing device and a control method.

Research and development are being conducted on printing devices that print images on print media.

In this regard, the device includes a volatile storage device having a volatile storage area and a non-volatile storage device having a non-volatile storage area, and is connected to an external storage device to store settings stored in the external storage device. 2. Description of the Related Art There is a known printing device that sets setting information in its own device by storing information in a nonvolatile storage device via a volatile storage device (see Patent Document 1).

JP2017-052296A

However, the printing device as described in Patent Document 1 operates using electric power supplied from an external power source. The external power source is, for example, an AC adapter, a storage battery, or the like. Therefore, if the printing device is not connected to an external power source, the user cannot store setting information in the printing device. As a result, for example, if the printing device is stored in a storage box, the user must take out the printing device from the storage box and then store the setting information in the printing device, which takes time and effort. There were times when it took.

In order to solve the above problems, one aspect of the present invention is a printing device that is capable of communicating with an external device, performs printing using first power supplied from an external power supply, and has a volatile storage area. Both a volatile storage unit, a nonvolatile storage unit having a nonvolatile storage area, a printing mechanism that performs the printing, communication between the external device, and supply of second power from the external device. a connector to which a cable used for the external device is connected; a communication control unit that controls communication with the external device via the cable when the cable is connected to the connector; When the first power is not being supplied from the power supply and the second power is being supplied from the external device via the cable, at least the communication control section, the control section, and the Each of the volatile storage unit and the nonvolatile storage unit is a printing device that operates using the supplied second power.

Further, in one aspect of the present invention, in the printing apparatus, when the first power is not being supplied from the external power source, the control unit is configured to control the power supply from the second power supply from the external device via the cable. When power is being supplied, a configuration may be used in which, when the communication control unit receives setting information from the external device, the received setting information is stored in the nonvolatile storage unit.

Further, in one aspect of the present invention, in the printing apparatus, the setting information includes update information for updating firmware of the printing apparatus, and the control unit stores the setting information in the nonvolatile storage unit. and when activated by the first power from the external power source, the setting information is read from the nonvolatile storage unit, and the firmware of the printing device is updated based on the read setting information. may be used.

Further, in one aspect of the present invention, in the printing apparatus, when the first power is not being supplied from the external power source, the control unit is configured to control the power supply from the second power supply from the external device via the cable. If power is being supplied, a configuration may be used in which the supplied second power is not supplied to the printing mechanism.

Further, in one aspect of the present invention, in the printing apparatus, when the first power is supplied from the external power source, the communication control section, the control section, the volatile storage section, the nonvolatile storage A configuration may be used in which each of the units and the printing mechanism operates using the supplied first power or power based on the first power.

Further, in one aspect of the present invention, in the printing apparatus, when the first power is being supplied from the external power source, the control unit transmits print information that causes the printing mechanism to perform the printing. A configuration may be used in which, when the communication control unit receives the print information from the external device, it causes the printing mechanism to perform the printing based on the received print information.

Further, in one aspect of the present invention, in the printing device, the printing device is packed in a storage box having an opening/closing part at the time of shipment, and the connector is connected to the printing device when the printing device is stored in the storage box. In this case, a configuration may be used in which the storage box is visible from the outside when the opening/closing part is opened.

Further, one aspect of the present invention is a method for controlling a printing device that is capable of communicating with an external device and performs printing using first power supplied from an external power source, the printing device storing volatile memory. communication between a volatile storage unit having an area, a nonvolatile storage unit having a nonvolatile storage area, a printing mechanism that performs printing, and the external device; and supply of second power from the external device. a connector to which a cable used for both is connected, a communication control unit that controls communication with the external device via the cable when the cable is connected to the connector, and a control unit. , when the first power is not being supplied from the external power source, and when the second power is being supplied from the external device via the cable, at least the communication control unit, the control In this control method, each of the storage unit, the volatile storage unit, and the nonvolatile storage unit is operated using the supplied second power.

1 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of a printing device 10. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration included inside a printing device 10. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the state of the printing device 10 when first power is supplied to the printing device 10. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of the state of the printing device 10 when second power is supplied to the printing device 10. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating another example of the state of the printing device 10 when the second power is supplied to the printing device 10. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a process flow in which the printing device 10 that operates using second power stores setting information. FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a process flow in which the printing device 10 sets setting information when first power is supplied. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the flow of a process in which the printing device 10 performs printing in response to a request from an external device 30. FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the printing device 10 packed in a storage box. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the printing device 10 packed in a storage box. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing still another example of the printing device 10 packed in a storage box.

<Embodiment>
Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

<Overview of printing device>
First, an overview of a printing apparatus according to an embodiment will be described.

The printing device is capable of communicating with external devices. The printing device performs printing using first power supplied from an external power source. The printing device includes a volatile storage section, a nonvolatile storage section, a printing mechanism, a connector, a communication control section, and a control section. The volatile storage unit has a volatile storage area. The nonvolatile storage section has a nonvolatile storage area. The printing mechanism is a mechanism that performs printing. The connector is a connector to which a cable used for both communication with an external device and supply of second power from the external device is connected. The communication control unit controls communication with an external device via the cable when the cable is connected to the connector. When the first power is not being supplied from the external power supply and the second power is being supplied from the external device via the cable, at least the communication control unit, the control unit, and the volatile Each of the storage unit and the nonvolatile storage unit operates using the supplied second power. Thereby, the printing device can store the setting information using the second power even if the first power is not supplied from the external power source. Below, the configuration of the printing device and the process by which the printing device that operates using the second power stores setting information will be described in detail.

<Printing device configuration>
Hereinafter, the configuration of the printing apparatus according to the embodiment will be described using the printing apparatus 10 as an example of the printing apparatus according to the embodiment.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of a printing apparatus 10. As shown in FIG.

The printing device 10 is a thermal printer. More specifically, the printing device 10 is, for example, a direct thermal printer that thermally records an image using a thermal line head (not shown in FIG. 1). Note that the printing device 10 may be another thermal printer instead of the direct thermal printer. Further, the printing device 10 may be another type of printer such as a dot impact printer or an inkjet printer instead of a thermal printer.

The printing device 10 prints on a long recording paper 11 pulled out from a roll paper (not shown) stored inside the printing device 10 .

As shown in FIG. 1, the printing apparatus 10 includes a main body case 12 and a cover case 13. In the printing device 10, the main body case 12 and the cover case 13 each constitute an exterior of the printing device 10.

The main body case 12 is a case that can accommodate roll paper among the cases that constitute the exterior of the printing device 10 .

Further, the main body case 12 is provided with an ejection port 14 through which the recording paper 11 is ejected. A cutting mechanism (not shown) is arranged inside the discharge port 14 . The cutting mechanism is a mechanism that partially or completely separates the printed recording paper from the unprinted recording paper. The printed recording paper is the recording paper portion of the recording paper 11 that has been printed. The unprinted recording paper refers to the recording paper portion of the recording paper 11 that has not been printed.

Further, the main body case 12 is provided with a display section 15 . The display section 15 includes an LED display section 15a, an LED display section 15b, and an LED display section 15c each having an LED (Light Emitting Diode) as a light source. The display section 15 displays the operating state of the printing apparatus 10, etc. by the lighting states of the LED display section 15a, the LED display section 15b, and the LED display section 15c. The display unit 15 also includes a switch 15d that accepts user operations.

Further, the main body case 12 is provided with a power switch 16. The power switch 16 is a power switch of the printing apparatus 10.

The cover case 13 is a case that can be opened and closed with respect to the main body case 12 among the cases that constitute the exterior of the printing apparatus 10 . Cover case 13 is connected to main body case 12 via a predetermined rotation axis AX. That is, the cover case 13 is rotatable about the rotation axis AX with respect to the main body case 12.

Here, the main case 12 is provided with an open button 17. When the open button 17 is pressed down, the cover case 13 opens. When the cover case 13 is opened, the inside of the main body case 12 is opened. When the inside of the main body case 12 is opened, a roll paper storage section (not shown) inside the main body case 12 is exposed. That is, when the cover case 13 is opened, the state of the printing apparatus 10 is such that the inside of the main body case 12 is opened.

Moreover, when the cover case 13 is closed, the inside of the main body case 12 is closed. When the inside of the cover case 13 is closed, the printing apparatus 10 is in a state in which it can normally perform normal operations.

Further, the main body case 12 is provided with a first connector 18 . In FIG. 1, the first connector 18 is located on the rear side of the printing device 10 and is therefore not visible. The first connector 18 is a connector that is connected to the first cable C1 by inserting the first cable C1. The first cable C1 is a power cable that connects the external power supply 20 and the printing device 10. The external power supply 20 is a power supply device that supplies first power to the printing apparatus 10 . In the example shown in FIG. 1, the printing device 10 is connected to an external power source 20 via a first cable C1.

Here, the external power supply 20 is, for example, an AC (Alternating Current) adapter. In this case, the external power supply 20 converts power supplied from a commercial power source (not shown) into first power, and supplies the converted first power to the printing device 10 . Here, the voltage of the first power is, for example, 24 volts. Note that the voltage of the first power may be lower than 24 volts or may be higher than 24 volts. Further, the external power supply 20 may be any other power supply device such as a storage battery instead of the AC adapter as long as it is capable of supplying the first power to the printing device 10. Further, in FIG. 1, the power cable connecting the commercial power source and the external power source 20 is omitted to prevent the diagram from becoming complicated.

Further, the main body case 12 is provided with a second connector 19 . In FIG. 1, the second connector 19 is located on the rear side of the printing device 10 and is therefore not visible. The second connector 19 is a connector that is connected to the second cable C2 by being inserted with the second cable C2. The second cable C2 is a cable used for both communication with an external device and supply of second power from the external device. For example, the second cable C2 is a USB (Universal Serial Bus) cable. In this case, the second connector 19 is a USB connector. Note that the second cable C2 may be Lightning (registered trademark) if it is a cable used for both communication with the external device 30 and supply of second power from the external device 30 instead of the USB cable. Other cables such as cables may also be used. Note that the second connector 19 is an example of a connector. Further, the second cable C2 is an example of a cable.

Here, the external device is a device connected to the printing device 10 via the second cable C2. Further, the external device is a device separate from the printing device 10. The external device may be any device as long as it is connectable to the printing device 10 via the second cable C2 and is separate from the printing device 10. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the printing device 10 is connected to the external device 30 via the second cable C2. Note that the external device 30 is an example of an external device.

The external device 30 sets setting information to the printing device 10, for example, via the second cable C2. The setting information is information including various types of information to be set to the printing apparatus 10. The setting information includes, for example, print setting information, communication setting information, firmware information, and the like.

The print setting information is information that includes various types of information to be set to the printing apparatus 10 regarding printing performed by the printing apparatus 10. The print setting information includes, for example, some or all of font information, registered images, print density information, print speed information, and the like. The font information is information indicating the font used by the printing device 10 for printing. The registered image is an image printed on the recording paper 11 as a background image. For example, the registered image is a store logo, a mark indicating that the document is a confidential document, an image of a background pattern, etc. The printing density information is information indicating the density of an image printed on the recording paper 11 by the printing device 10. The printing speed information is information indicating the speed at which the printing device 10 prints an image on the recording paper 11.

Communication setting information is information set in the printing device 10 regarding communication with other devices via a network. The communication setting information includes, for example, some or all of an IP (Internet Protocol) address, subnet mask, gateway, access point information, security information, and the like. The access point information is information indicating an access point to which the printing apparatus 10 connects wirelessly, and is, for example, an SSID (Service Set Identifier). The security information is information regarding security in communications performed by the printing device 10. The security information includes, for example, some or all of information indicating a WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) key, information indicating a WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup), and the like. Here, Wi-Fi is a registered trademark.

The firmware information is information regarding firmware installed in the printing device 10. The firmware information includes, for example, part or all of firmware to be installed in the printing device 10, information to update the firmware installed in the printing device 10, and the like.

Here, the external device 30 causes the printing device 10 to store the setting information. After storing the setting information in the printing device 10, the external device 30 sets the stored setting information in the printing device 10. Specifically, if the setting information includes print setting information, the external device 30 stores the print setting information as a reference destination for the firmware to refer to when the printing device 10 prints. The printer 10 is caused to perform a process of specifying the stored storage area in the firmware. Further, when the configuration information includes communication configuration information, the external device 30 uses a storage area where the communication configuration information is stored as a reference destination for the firmware to refer to the communication configuration information when the printing device 10 performs communication. The printing apparatus 10 is caused to perform a process of specifying the firmware in the firmware. Further, if the setting information includes firmware information, the external device 30 causes the printing device 10 to install the firmware or update the firmware. Through these processes, the external device 30 sets setting information in the printing device 10.

The external device 30 is an information processing device, and is, for example, a notebook PC (Personal Computer), a tablet PC, a multifunctional mobile phone terminal (smartphone), a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a desktop PC, a workstation, or the like. Note that the external device 30 may be other types of information processing devices instead of these.

<Hardware configuration inside the printing device>
Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 2, the hardware configuration provided inside the printing apparatus 10 will be described. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration included inside the printing apparatus 10.

As shown in FIG. 2, the printing device 10 includes a processor 101, a volatile storage section 102, a nonvolatile storage section 103, a printing mechanism 104, a print control section 105, and a communication control section 106. Here, for convenience of explanation, FIG. Connector 18 and second connector 19 are shown. Note that the printing device 10 includes a processor 101, a volatile storage unit 102, a nonvolatile storage unit 103, a printing mechanism 104, a print control unit 105, a communication control unit 106, and other hardware functions. The configuration may include a section.

The processor 101 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). Note that the processor 101 may be another processor such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). Processor 101 is an example of a control unit.

The volatile storage unit 102 is a storage device having a volatile storage area. The volatile storage unit 102 is, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory). Note that the volatile storage unit 102 may be any other storage device as long as it has a volatile storage area.

The nonvolatile storage unit 103 is a storage device having a nonvolatile storage area. Nonvolatile storage unit 103 is, for example, a flash memory. Note that the nonvolatile storage unit 103 may be any other storage device as long as it has a nonvolatile storage area.

The printing mechanism 104 is a mechanism including, for example, a conveyance roller, a conveyance motor, a thermal line head, and a cutting mechanism. The conveyance roller conveys the recording paper 11. The conveyance motor drives the conveyance roller together with various gears. The thermal line head prints an image on recording paper 11 that is transported by a transport motor. The cutting mechanism cuts the recording paper 11 after printing by the thermal line head.

Note that the printing apparatus 10 may be configured to include a cutting mechanism as a separate mechanism from the printing mechanism 104. In this case, in the printing apparatus 10, when power is supplied to the printing mechanism 104, power is also supplied to the cutting mechanism. Further, in this case, in the printing apparatus 10, when the power supply to the printing mechanism 104 is cut off, the power supply to the cutting mechanism is also cut off. Furthermore, in this case, in the printing apparatus 10, the power supplied to the printing mechanism 104 is the same as the power supplied to the cutting mechanism. That is, in this case, in the printing apparatus 10, for example, when the first power is supplied to the printing mechanism 104, the first power is also supplied to the cutting mechanism. Further, the printing apparatus 10 may be configured to include a conveyance mechanism having a conveyance roller and a conveyance motor as a separate mechanism from the printing mechanism 104. In this case, in the printing apparatus 10, when power is supplied to the printing mechanism 104, power is also supplied to the transport mechanism. Furthermore, in this case, in the printing apparatus 10, when the power supply to the printing mechanism 104 is cut off, the power supply to the transport mechanism is also cut off. Furthermore, in this case, in the printing apparatus 10, the power supplied to the printing mechanism 104 is the same as the power supplied to the transport mechanism. That is, in this case, in the printing apparatus 10, for example, when the first power is supplied to the printing mechanism 104, the first power is also supplied to the transport mechanism.

The print control unit 105 is a circuit that drives the printing mechanism 104. Print control unit 105 is controlled by processor 101.

The communication control unit 106 is a circuit that controls communication with an external device via the second connector 19. That is, in the example shown in FIG. 1, the communication control unit 106 controls communication with the external device 30 via the second connector 19. Communication control unit 106 is controlled by processor 101. Note that the communication control unit 106 may be configured to include a processor. In this case, among the functions of the processor 101, the processor may have a function of controlling the communication control unit 106. In this case, the processor is an example of a control unit. Furthermore, the communication control unit 106 includes a buffer. By increasing the storage area of the buffer included in the communication control unit 106, the processor 101 can use the buffer instead of the volatile storage unit 102. In this case, the buffer is an example of a volatile storage unit.

<The status of the printing device varies depending on the power supplied to the printing device>
The state of the printing device 10 differs depending on whether the first power is being supplied or the second power is being supplied. Therefore, the states of the printing device 10 that differ depending on the power supplied to the printing device 10 will be described below. Further, below, as an example, a case will be described in which the voltage of the second power is lower than the voltage of the first power. The voltage of the second power is, for example, 5 volts or 3.3 volts. Mechanisms such as the printing mechanism 104 operate when first power is supplied from the external power source 20 . Other logic circuits such as the processor 101, the volatile storage unit 102, the nonvolatile storage unit 103, the print control unit 105, and the communication control unit 106 operate with the second power. When the printing device 10 is supplied with the first power via the power switch 16, the power supply circuit generates the second power from the first power and supplies it to each of the above-mentioned logic circuits. In the following, for convenience of explanation, two hardware functional units, the printing mechanism 104 and the print control unit 105, will be collectively referred to as a first hardware functional unit of the printing apparatus 10. Here, the first hardware functional unit is a hardware functional unit that allows the printing apparatus 10 to be driven using the voltage of the first power. Note that the first hardware functional unit may be a hardware functional unit that can be driven using either the first power voltage or the second power voltage. Further, in the following, for convenience of explanation, the four hardware functional units of the processor 101, the volatile storage unit 102, the nonvolatile storage unit 103, and the communication control unit 106 will be referred to as the second hardware functional unit of the printing apparatus 10. explain. Here, the second hardware functional unit is a hardware functional unit that allows the printing apparatus 10 to be driven using either the first power voltage or the second power voltage.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the state of the printing device 10 when the first power is supplied to the printing device 10. In the example shown in FIG. 3, an external power supply 20 is connected to the printing apparatus 10. Further, in this example, the external device 30 is not connected to the printing device 10. In this example, in the printing apparatus 10, the power switch 16 is in the on state. For these reasons, the printing apparatus 10 shown in FIG. 3 is supplied with first power from the external power supply 20. In FIG. 3, "(on)" indicates that the power switch 16 is in the on state.

When the first power is supplied to the printing device 10, the printing device 10 operates each of the first hardware functional units and each of the second hardware functional units using the first power. In other words, in the printing apparatus 10, in this case, the power generated based on the first power or the first power is supplied to each of the first hardware functional units. Further, in the printing apparatus 10, in this case, each of the second hardware functional units is also supplied with the power generated based on the first power or the first power. That is, in this case, the printing apparatus 10 can operate all the hardware functional units included in the printing apparatus 10. As a result, in this case, the printing device 10 can execute all the functions that the printing device 10 has. In FIG. 3, among the hardware functional units included in the printing apparatus 10, the hardware functional units that the printing apparatus 10 operates using the first power in the example shown in FIG. 3 are indicated by hatched blocks.

On the other hand, FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the state of the printing apparatus 10 when the second power is supplied to the printing apparatus 10. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the external power supply 20 is not connected to the printing device 10. Further, in this example, an external device 30 is connected to the printing device 10. In this example, in the printing apparatus 10, the power switch 16 is in the on state or the off state. That is, the state of the printing apparatus 10 shown in FIG. 4 does not change depending on the state of the power switch 16. In FIG. 3, "(on or off)" indicates that the power switch 16 is on or off.

When the second power is supplied to the printing device 10, the printing device 10 operates each of the second hardware functional units using the second power. In other words, in the printing apparatus 10, in this case, the power generated based on the second power or the second power is supplied to each of the second hardware functional units. That is, in this case, the printing apparatus 10 can operate some of the hardware functional units included in the printing apparatus 10. As a result, in this case, the printing device 10 can execute some of the functions that the printing device 10 has. Thereby, the printing apparatus 10 can use power smaller than the first power as the second power supplied from the external device 30. In FIG. 4, among the hardware functional units included in the printing device 10, the hardware functional units that the printing device 10 operates using the second power are indicated by hatched blocks.

Here, when the printing device 10 operates each of the second hardware functional units, the printing device 10 cannot execute some of the functions that the printing device 10 has. However, in this case, the printing apparatus 10 can store various types of information in the nonvolatile storage unit 103 in response to a request from the external device 30. Further, in this case, the printing device 10 can set the setting information stored in the printing device 10 in response to a request from the external device 30. In other words, the printing device 10 can store the setting information by connecting the external device 30 via the second cable C2 without connecting the external power source 20. The printing apparatus 10 can set the setting information even if the first power is not supplied from the external power supply 20.

Note that if the first hardware functional unit is a hardware functional unit that can be driven using either the voltage of the first power or the voltage of the second power, or the voltage of the second power is the voltage of the first power. If the voltage is higher than the voltage, the printing device 10 operates each of the first hardware functional units and each of the second hardware functional units using the second power even if the second power is supplied. It may also be configured to operate with

Furthermore, even if the external power supply 20 is connected to the printing device 10, if the power switch 16 is in the off state and the external device 30 is connected, the 2 power is supplied. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating another example of the state of the printing device 10 when the second power is supplied to the printing device 10. In the example shown in FIG. 5, an external power supply 20 is connected to the printing device 10. Further, in this example, an external device 30 is connected to the printing device 10. In this example, in the printing apparatus 10, the power switch 16 is in the off state. That is, the state of the printing device 10 shown in FIG. 5 is the same state as the state of the printing device 10 shown in FIG. 4. In FIG. 5, the off state of the power switch 16 is indicated by "(off)". Note that, in FIG. 5 as well, among the hardware functional units included in the printing apparatus 10, the hardware functional units that the printing apparatus 10 operates using the second power are indicated by hatched blocks.

<Processing in which the printing device that operates using the second power stores setting information>
Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 6, a process in which the printing apparatus 10 operating using the second power stores setting information will be described. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a process flow in which the printing apparatus 10 operating using the second power stores setting information. In the following, as an example, a case will be described in which the printing device 10 and the external device 30 are connected via the second cable C2 at a timing before the process of step S110 shown in FIG. 6 is performed. Further, below, as an example, a case will be described in which the external power supply 20 is not connected to the printing apparatus 10.

The processor 101 waits until the communication control unit 106 receives the setting information from the external device 30 (step S110).

When the processor 101 determines that the communication control unit 106 has received the setting information from the external device 30 (step S110-YES), the processor 101 causes the volatile storage unit 102 to store the setting information received by the communication control unit 106. Then, the processor 101 stores the setting information stored in the volatile storage unit 102 in the nonvolatile storage unit 103 (step S120). That is, in this case, the processor 101 stores the setting information received by the communication control unit 106 in the nonvolatile storage unit 103. At this time, if previously stored setting information is stored in the nonvolatile storage unit 103, the processor 101 deletes the previously stored setting information and stores the new setting information in the nonvolatile storage unit 103. Make me remember. Note that when the communication control unit 106 receives setting information from the external device 30, the communication control unit 106 temporarily stores the received setting information in a buffer (not shown) provided in the communication control unit 106. When the processor 101 determines that the communication control unit has received the setting information from the external device 30, the processor 101 reads the setting information from this buffer and stores the read setting information in the volatile storage unit 102.

Next, the processor 101 waits until the communication control unit 106 receives setting change start information from the external device 30 (step S130).

If the processor 101 determines that the communication control unit 106 has received the setting start information from the external device 30 (step S130-YES), the processor 101 stores the setting information stored in the nonvolatile storage unit 103 in step S120 in the nonvolatile storage unit 103. Read from. Then, the processor 101 sets the read setting information (step S140), and ends the process.

As described above, the printing apparatus 10 can receive setting information from the external device 30 using the second power even when the first power is not supplied. As a result, the printing device 10 can store the received setting information even in this case. Even in this case, the printing apparatus 10 can set the setting information.

Note that the printing apparatus 10 described above may be configured to receive setting information and setting start information from the external device 30 in step S110. In this case, the printing apparatus 10 omits the process of step S130.

Furthermore, the printing apparatus 10 described above may be configured to not perform the processes of step S130 and step S140 when the second power is supplied. That is, in this case, the printing device 10 may be configured to be able to store setting information in response to a request from the external device 30, but not be able to set setting information in response to a request from the external device 30. In this case, the printing apparatus 10 sets the setting information by executing the process of the flowchart shown in FIG. 7, for example, when the first power is supplied next time. Note that a specific example of the case where the first power is supplied next time includes, for example, the case where the printing apparatus 10 is started next using the first power.

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a process flow in which the printing apparatus 10 sets setting information when the first power is supplied. In addition, below, as an example, a case will be described in which the process of step S120 shown in FIG. 6 is performed at a timing before the process of step S210 shown in FIG. 7 is performed. That is, below, as an example, a case will be described in which new setting information that has not yet been set in the printing apparatus 10 is already stored in the nonvolatile storage unit 103 at the timing. Further, below, as an example, a case will be described in which the external power supply 20 is connected to the printing device 10 and the external device 30 is not connected to the printing device 10. Further, below, as an example, a case will be described in which the state of the power switch 16 is switched from the off state to the on state at the timing.

The processor 101 refers to the nonvolatile storage unit 103 and determines whether new setting information that has not yet been set in the printing apparatus 10 is stored in the nonvolatile storage unit 103 (step S210). Note that in FIG. 7, the process of step S210 is indicated by "Is there new setting information?"

When the processor 101 determines that the new setting information is not stored in the nonvolatile storage unit 103 (step S210-NO), the process ends. Then, the processor 101 transitions the state of the printing apparatus 10 to the normal use state.

On the other hand, if the processor 101 determines that new setting information is stored in the non-volatile storage unit 103 (step S210-YES), the processor 101 sets the new setting information stored in the non-volatile storage unit 103 (step S210-YES). S220), the process ends. Note that the processor 101 may restart the printing apparatus 10 after the process of step S220 is performed, or may not restart the printing apparatus 10.

As described above, even if the printing apparatus 10 has a configuration in which the processes of step S130 and step S140 are not performed when the second power is supplied, the printing apparatus 10 stores the setting information the next time the first power is supplied. Can be set.

<Processing in which the printing device prints in response to a request from an external device>
Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 8, a process in which the printing device 10 performs printing in response to a request from the external device 30 will be described. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a process flow in which the printing device 10 performs printing in response to a request from the external device 30. In the following, as an example, a case will be described in which setting information on the printing apparatus 10 is completed at a timing before the process of step S310 shown in FIG. 8 is performed. Further, below, as an example, a case will be described in which the external power supply 20 is connected to the printing device 10 and the external device 30 is connected to the printing device 10. Further, in the following, as an example, a case will be described in which the power switch 16 of the printing apparatus 10 is in the on state.

The processor 101 waits until the communication control unit 106 receives print information from the external device 30 (step S310). Here, the print information is information including an image to be printed by the printing device 10 and information to cause the printing device 10 to start printing.

If the processor 101 determines that the communication control unit 106 has received print information from the external device 30 (step S310 - YES), the processor 101 causes the printing mechanism 104 to print on the recording paper 11 based on the received print information (step S310 - YES). S320), the process ends. Printing on the recording paper 11 based on the print information refers to printing an image included in the print information on the recording paper 11. Here, in step S320, the processor 101 performs the printing based on print setting information among the setting information set in the printing apparatus 10.

<How to store setting information in the printing device packed in the storage box at the time of shipment>
Hereinafter, a method for storing setting information in the printing device 10 packed in a storage box at the time of shipment will be described. As described above, the printing device 10 can store setting information without connecting the external power source 20 by connecting the external device 30 via the second cable C2. In other words, as will be explained below, setting information can be stored in the printing device 10 without removing the printing device 10 packed in a storage box at the time of shipment from the storage box.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the printing device 10 packed in a storage box. The storage box BX shown in FIG. 9 is an example of a storage box in which the printing device 10 is packed. That is, in the example shown in FIG. 9, the printing device 10 is packed in a storage box BX. The storage box BX is, for example, a cardboard box. The storage box BX is provided with a window DR that can be opened and closed. Note that the storage box BX may be made of another material instead of being made of cardboard. The window DR may have any configuration as long as it can be opened and closed by the user's hand on the surface of the storage box BX on which the window DR is provided. Here, as shown in FIG. 9, when the printing device 10 is packed in the storage box BX, the second connector 19 of the printing device 10 is in a position where it can be seen when the window DR is opened. In other words, the window DR is provided in the storage box BX so that the second connector 19 is located in a position where the second connector 19 can be seen when the window DR is opened in this case. In this case, a person who sets setting information to the printing device 10 using the external device 30 can connect the second cable C2 and the second connector 19 by opening the window DR without taking out the printing device 10 from the storage box BX. can be connected with. As a result, the person can connect the printing device 10 and the external device 30 via the second cable C2. That is, the person can store the setting information in the printing device 10 using the external device 30 without taking out the printing device 10 packed in the storage box BX at the time of shipment from the storage box BX. Then, the person can use the external device 30 to set the setting information on the printing apparatus 10 without taking out the printing apparatus 10 packed in the storage box BX at the time of shipment from the storage box BX. Note that the person is, for example, a system integrator, but is not limited to this. The window portion DR is an example of an opening/closing portion.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the printing device 10 packed in a storage box. The storage box BX2 shown in FIG. 10 is another example of the storage box in which the printing device 10 is packed. That is, in the example shown in FIG. 10, the printing device 10 is packed in the storage box BX2 together with the second cable C2 connected to the second connector 19. The storage box BX2 is, for example, a cardboard box. The storage box BX2 is provided with a window DR2 that can be opened and closed. Note that the storage box BX2 may be made of another material instead of being made of cardboard. The window DR2 may have any configuration as long as it can be opened and closed by the user's hand on the surface of the storage box BX2 on which the window DR2 is provided. Here, as shown in FIG. 10, when the printing device 10 is packed in the storage box BX2, the second cable C2 connected to the second connector 19 is placed in a position where it can be seen when the window DR2 is opened. be. In other words, the window DR2 is provided in the storage box BX2 so that when the window DR2 is opened in this case, the second cable C2 connected to the second connector 19 can be seen. In this case, a person who uses the external device 30 to set setting information on the printing device 10 can pull out the second cable C2 by opening the window DR2 without taking out the printing device 10 from the storage box BX2. . Then, the person can connect the pulled out second cable C2 to the external device 30. As a result, the person can connect the printing device 10 and the external device 30 via the second cable C2. That is, the person can store the setting information in the printing device 10 using the external device 30 without taking out the printing device 10 packed in the storage box BX2 at the time of shipment from the storage box BX2. Then, the person can use the external device 30 to set the setting information on the printing apparatus 10 without taking out the printing apparatus 10 packed in the storage box BX2 at the time of shipment from the storage box BX2. Note that the person concerned is, for example, a system integrator, but is not limited to this. The window portion DR2 is an example of an opening/closing portion.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing still another example of the printing device 10 packed in a storage box. The storage box BX3 shown in FIG. 11 is another example of the storage box in which the printing device 10 is packed. That is, in the example shown in FIG. 11, the printing apparatus 10 is packed in the storage box BX3 together with the second cable C2 connected to the second connector 19. The storage box BX3 is, for example, a cardboard box. The storage box BX3 is provided with an opening/closing part DR3 that can be opened and closed. Note that the storage box BX3 may be made of another material instead of being made of cardboard. The opening/closing part DR3 is, for example, a lid that constitutes one of the surfaces of the storage box BX3 and can open and close the surface. Here, as shown in FIG. 11, when the printing device 10 is packed in the storage box BX3, the second cable C2 connected to the second connector 19 is located at a position where it can be seen when the opening/closing part DR3 is opened. be. In other words, the opening/closing part DR3 is provided in the storage box BX3 so that when the opening/closing part DR3 is opened in this case, the second cable C2 connected to the second connector 19 is located in a position where the second cable C2 is visible. In this case, a person who uses the external device 30 to set setting information on the printing device 10 can pull out the second cable C2 by opening the opening/closing part DR3 without taking out the printing device 10 from the storage box BX3. . Then, the person can connect the pulled out second cable C2 to the external device 30. As a result, the person can connect the printing device 10 and the external device 30 via the second cable C2. That is, the person can store the setting information in the printing device 10 using the external device 30 without taking out the printing device 10 packed in the storage box BX3 at the time of shipment from the storage box BX3. Then, the person can use the external device 30 to set the setting information on the printing apparatus 10 without taking out the printing apparatus 10 packed in the storage box BX3 at the time of shipment from the storage box BX3. Note that the person concerned is, for example, a system integrator, but is not limited to this. The window portion DR2 is an example of an opening/closing portion.

As described above, the printing device according to the embodiment is a printing device that can communicate with an external device, performs printing using first power supplied from an external power source, and has a volatile storage area. Used for both communication between a volatile storage unit, a nonvolatile storage unit having a nonvolatile storage area, a printing mechanism that performs printing, and an external device, and supply of second power from the external device. A connector to which a cable is connected, a communication control unit that controls communication with an external device via the cable when the cable is connected to the connector, and a control unit, and supplies first power from an external power source. is not performed, and when the second power is supplied from the external device via the cable, at least each of the communication control section, the control section, the volatile storage section, and the nonvolatile storage section is not supplied with the second power. It operates using the second power. Thereby, the printing device can store the setting information using the second power even if the first power is not supplied from the external power source.

In addition, in the printing device, the control unit further stores setting information when the first power is not being supplied from the external power source and when the second power is being supplied from the external device via the cable. A configuration may be used in which when the communication control section receives the setting information from an external device, the received setting information is stored in the nonvolatile storage section. Thereby, the printing device can store the setting information received from the external device even if the first power is not supplied from the external power source.

In addition, in the printing device, the setting information includes update information for updating the firmware of the printing device, and the control unit controls the setting information by the first power from the external power source when the setting information is stored in the non-volatile storage unit. When activated, a configuration may be used in which setting information is read from the non-volatile storage unit and firmware of the printing apparatus is updated based on the read setting information. Thereby, the printing device can update the firmware of the printing device, for example, without taking the printing device out of the storage box.

In addition, in the printing device, the control unit controls the second power supply when the first power is not being supplied from the external power source and the second power is being supplied from the external device via the cable. Configurations may also be used in which power is not supplied to the printing mechanism. Thereby, the printing device can use power smaller than the first power as the second power.

Furthermore, in the printing device, when the first power is supplied from an external power source, each of the communication control section, the control section, the volatile storage section, the non-volatile storage section, and the printing mechanism is A configuration may be used that operates using electrical power or electrical power based on the first electrical power.

In addition, in the printing device, when the first power is being supplied from the external power supply, and when the communication control unit receives print information from the external device that causes the printing mechanism to print, the control unit receives the print information from the external device. A configuration may be used in which the printing mechanism is caused to perform printing based on the print information obtained.

In addition, the printing device is packed in a storage box with an opening and closing part at the time of shipment, and when the printing device is stored in the storage box, the connector is located in a position that can be seen from the outside of the storage box when the opening and closing part is opened. Certain configurations may be used. Thereby, even if the printing device is packed in a storage box at the time of shipment, setting information can be stored without removing the printing device from the storage box.

Although the embodiments of this invention have been described above in detail with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment, and modifications, substitutions, deletions, etc. may be made without departing from the gist of this invention. may be done.

Furthermore, a program for realizing the functions of arbitrary components in the apparatus described above may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the program may be read and executed by a computer system. Here, the device is, for example, the printing device 10, the external device 30, or the like. Note that the "computer system" herein includes hardware such as an OS (Operating System) and peripheral devices. Furthermore, "computer-readable recording media" refers to portable media such as flexible disks, magneto-optical disks, ROMs, and CD (Compact Disk)-ROMs, and storage devices such as hard disks built into computer systems. . Furthermore, "computer-readable recording media" refers to volatile memory inside a computer system that serves as a server or client when a program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line. This also includes those that hold time programs.

Further, the above program may be transmitted from a computer system storing the program in a storage device or the like to another computer system via a transmission medium or by a transmission wave in a transmission medium. Here, the "transmission medium" that transmits the program refers to a medium that has a function of transmitting information, such as a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line.
Moreover, the above-mentioned program may be for realizing a part of the above-mentioned functions. Furthermore, the above-mentioned program may be a so-called difference file or difference program that can realize the above-described functions in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10...Printing device, 11...Recording paper, 12...Main body case, 13...Cover case, 14...Ejection port, 14d...Switch, 15...Display section, 15a, 15b, 15c...LED display section, 16...Power switch, 17 ...Open button, 18...First connector, 19...Second connector, 20...External power supply, 30...External device, 101...Processor, 102...Volatile storage section, 103...Non-volatile storage section, 104...Printing mechanism, 105 ...Print control unit, 106...Communication control unit, AX...Rotation axis, BX, BX2, BX3...Storage box, C1...First cable, C2...Second cable, DR, DR2...Window section, DR3...Opening/closing section

Claims (8)

A printing device capable of communicating with an external device and printing using first power supplied from an external power source,
a power switch that turns on and off the first power;
a first hardware functional unit including a printing mechanism that performs the printing;
a connector to which a cable used for both communication with the external device and supply of second power from the external device is connected;
a second hardware functional unit including a communication control unit that controls communication with the external device via the cable when the cable is connected to the connector;
Equipped with
When the external power source is connected and the power switch is in an off state, the first power is not supplied from the external power source;
When the external power source is connected and the power switch is in an on state, the first power is supplied from the external power source,
When the external power source is not connected, the external device is connected via the cable, and the power switch is in an off state, the second hardware function unit operates using the second power,
When the external power source is not connected and the external device is connected via the cable and the power switch is on, the second hardware function section operates using the second power ,
When the external power supply and the external device are connected and the power switch is off, the first hardware functional unit does not operate using the first power, and the second hardware functional unit does not operate using the first power. operating using a second power;
Printing device. a non-volatile storage unit having a non-volatile storage area;
comprising a control unit;
When the second hardware functional unit operates using the second power, the communication control unit receives setting information from the external device , and the control unit transfers the received setting information to the non-volatile memory. Store it in the memory unit,
The printing device according to claim 1. The setting information includes update information for updating firmware of the printing device,
When the setting information is stored in the non-volatile storage unit and when activated by the first power from the external power supply, the control unit reads the setting information from the non-volatile storage unit, and reads the setting information from the non-volatile storage unit. updating the firmware of the printing device based on the setting information;
The printing device according to claim 2. When the first power is not being supplied from the external power source and when the second power is being supplied from the external device via the cable, the control unit is configured to 2 not supplying power to the printing mechanism;
The printing device according to claim 2 or 3. When the first power is being supplied from the external power source and the power switch is in the on state , the first hardware function section and the second hardware function section are configured to use the supplied first power. 5. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the printing apparatus operates using electric power based on the first electric power. When the first power is being supplied from the external power source and the communication control unit receives print information from the external device that causes the print mechanism to perform the printing, the print mechanism receives the received print information. performing the printing based on the printing information;
The printing device according to claim 5. The printing device includes:
It is packed in a storage box with an opening and closing part at the time of shipment.
When the printing device is stored in the storage box, the connector is located at a position where it can be seen from the outside of the storage box when the opening/closing section is opened.
A printing device according to any one of claims 1 to 6. A method for controlling a printing device that is capable of communicating with an external device and prints using first power supplied from an external power source, the method comprising:
The printing device includes:
a power switch that turns on and off the first power;
a first hardware functional unit including a printing mechanism that performs the printing;
a connector to which a cable used for both communication with the external device and supply of second power from the external device is connected;
a second hardware functional unit including a communication control unit that controls communication with the external device via the cable;
Equipped with
When the external power source is connected and the power switch is in an off state, the first power is not supplied from the external power source;
When the external power source is connected and the power switch is in an on state, supplying the first power from the external power source;
If the external power source is not connected and the external device is connected via the cable, the second hardware function unit is powered by the second power regardless of the state of the power switch . and run it ,
When the external power source and the external device are connected and the power switch is in an off state, the second hardware functional unit is operated using the second power;
Control method.

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